The year may not have ended yet, but part of looking ahead is being reminded of where you’ve been. I’m once again taking time to reflect on the things that inspired me and my business this year.
THIRST by Scott Harrington
This was definitely my favorite book of 2018. I wasn’t very familiar with Charity:water or its story, but bought the book after listening to an interview with Scott Harrington. This organization is doing truly remarkable work and transforming all of our assumptions about the traditional approach to building and running a non-profit.
Jeni Britton Bauer on How I Built This Live
One of my highlights of 2018 was attending the live taping of How I Built This. I am a true fangirl of HIBT and Jeni’s amazing ice cream, so listening to the full interview live was memorable. Guy is a masterful interviewer, and Jeni was specular – funny, irreverent and honest. Listen here.
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center
This year was our first visit Top Sail Island, NC, and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue Center. It was heartbreaking to see the effects of plastic bags, straws and sand toys on these beautiful animals but also inspiring to learn about the work they are doing to help these animals, educate the public and clean up the North Carolina coastline.
The Change You Make
This isn’t a product or a place, but rather a recurring theme in 2018. Throughout the year, I kept running up against this idea: the change you make versus the change you let happen. As I think about where I am right now, I realize it is from a mix of doing the work to create change, but also stepping back and allowing for the mystery of change. As you start planning for 2019, work hard, but be mindful of leaving space for the mystery and joy in what lies ahead.
The Calm App
The values of meditation aren’t new and I’ve been dabbling in meditating for a year or two. However, it wasn’t until I changed my morning routine this fall that I started meditating regularly. I allowed myself to start with guided meditations from the Calm app and have ultimately transitioned into timed meditations. I only meditate for about 15 minutes but I can tell the difference it makes.
Thank you for reading! I hope each of you take time to reflect on the big and little things that inspired you.
